| equivocal |
having at least two plausible alternative meanings, often intentionally so in order to deceive or avoid commitment; ambiguous. |
| exponent |
one that expounds or interprets. |
| figurehead |
a person whose title sounds important but who has no real power. |
| flummox |
(informal) to confuse or puzzle. |
| halcyon |
tranquil; peaceful; calm. |
| idyllic |
charmingly simple and natural, as a scene or experience; suggestive of peaceful countryside. |
| incursion |
a raid or sudden invasion. |
| insouciant |
having no cares or anxieties; light-hearted; carefree. |
| insularity |
the condition of being closed to new ideas or outside influences; narrow-mindedness. |
| linguistics |
(used with a singular verb) the scientific and historical study of the form and structure of human language. |
| oblivious |
not conscious or paying attention; unknowing or unaware (usually followed by "to" or "of"). |
| quadrant |
any of the four parts that result when an area is divided by two lines, real or imaginary, that intersect each other at right angles. |
| shibboleth |
a slogan, phrase, or belief that characterizes or is held devotedly by a group. |
| stickler |
one who must observe or conform to something (usually followed by "for"). |
| stochastic |
of, or arising from chance or probability. |